Ademola Lookman may be on his way out of Serie A, as Atlético Madrid step up efforts to sign the Super Eagles star from Atalanta ahead of the 2025/26 LaLiga season. According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano on Wednesday, contacts between Atlético and Atalanta have intensified in recent days despite the club recently finalizing a deal for Thiago Almada.
Atlético are reportedly keen to bolster their forward line with Lookman, who ended last season with 15 goals and 7 assists in all competitions, including a historic UEFA Europa League final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen. The Madrid club is awaiting final price clarity from Atalanta before tabling an official bid.
Lookman’s stellar performances in both Serie A and on the European stage have attracted interest from multiple clubs, but sources say Atlético’s sporting project and Champions League guarantees give them the upper hand. Atalanta, who initially signed the 26-year-old for €9 million from RB Leipzig in 2022, are expected to demand over €35 million.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have reached a verbal agreement with teenage prodigy Ethan Nwaneri over a long-term contract extension. The 17-year-old midfielder, who became the youngest player in Premier League history in 2022, was a target for Chelsea and Manchester City but has decided to continue his development at the Emirates.
The Gunners had been locked in talks with Nwaneri’s camp since last week, and sources close to the negotiation confirmed to Sky Sports that the paperwork will be signed before Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the USA. Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to include Nwaneri in first-team activities this summer.
Elsewhere in the transfer market, Liverpool winger Luis Díaz is reportedly open to leaving Anfield if a top offer arrives. Bayern Munich and Barcelona remain interested in the Colombian star, although Liverpool have rejected all previous approaches and maintain that Díaz is not for sale.
Barcelona’s director of football Deco has remained in contact with Díaz’s representatives, and Bayern are said to be preparing a fresh offer after finalizing internal financial planning. Liverpool’s stance could soften if the Reds receive a bid exceeding €65 million.
